Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition that affects the central nervous system. It occurs when the immune system attacks the protective substance that covers the nerve fibres in the spinal cord and the brain, interfering with communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

MS can cause a variety of symptoms, and progress in different ways. According to the MS Trust, there are about 150,000 people in the UK living with the condition but it is widely misunderstood, and there can be differences of opinion even within the medical community. Here’s a look at some of the most common MS myths and what the truth is.

MS only affects mobility

Many people assume that people with MS only have symptoms such as difficulty walking, tremors, and muscle weakness. It is true that these are very common symptoms of MS, but as the condition affects the central nervous system, it can cause a very wide range of other symptoms.

These include cognitive changes and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety; fatigue, vision problems; and bladder and bowel issues. Pain is another common MS symptom that can be debilitating. It can be caused by muscle damage or nerve pain, such as trigeminal neuralgia, which is a sudden and severe facial pain.

MS only affects older people

It is often assumed that MS is a condition of old age, because some of the symptoms may resemble those of the frail and elderly. However, most people experience their first symptoms of MS between the ages of 20 and 40 years, and it is relatively rare to be diagnosed in later middle or old age.

MS means that you will need a wheelchair

It is often mistakenly assumed that an MS diagnosis will mean that a few years down the line you will have to rely on a wheelchair for mobility. However, everyone’s symptoms are unique to them and progress at different rates. Some people will only ever have mild symptoms and never need to use mobility aids, although a minority will use crutches or a wheelchair.

MS is a terminal disease

A diagnosis of MS does not mean that you have a fatal disease. It is a lifelong condition and it is currently considered to be incurable, but it is not a terminal condition that directly results in death. However, research is continually ongoing to understand the causes of MS and to develop new and more effective treatments.

Eventually, many scientists and MS medical professionals are hopeful that one day a cure for MS could be discovered.

MS is a hereditary condition

Scientists believe that to a certain extent, our genes do play a role in the likelihood of developing MS. However, having a parent or other close relative with the disease does not automatically mean that you will also develop it. Similarly, if you have MS, this does not mean that your children will automatically develop it as well.

However, there is a genetic component to the disease, so it does heighten the risk that it will be passed on through families.

People with MS should not have active lifestyles

It is a myth that people with MS need to spend most of their time resting at home and that they should not work or exercise. For some people, the severity of their symptoms may mean that their daily activities become more limited. However, exercise is considered to be beneficial for MS patients, and not doing any could make the symptoms worse.

According to researchers, exercise can have several benefits for MS patients: “Appropriate exercise can cause noteworthy and important improvements in different areas of cardio respiratory fitness (Aerobic fitness), muscle strength, flexibility, balance, fatigue, cognition, quality of life and respiratory function in MS patients.”

“Aerobic exercise training with low to moderate intensity can result in the improvement of aerobic fitness and reduction of fatigue in MS patients affected by mild or moderate disability.”

MS is a complex and often misunderstood condition, but with the right information and support, it is possible to manage the symptoms and continue to live a rewarding and meaningful life.

If you would like some more information on MS and Trigeminal Neuralgia treatment, please contact Mr Jonathan Hyam of Amethyst Radiotherapy.

New £400m Partnership between Government and Industry to revolutionise Brain Tumour Research and Clinical Trials

The government and the private sector have launched a new partnership that will see £400m invested in the life sciences sector. The Brain Tumour Research (BTR) charity reports that The Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicine Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG) Investment Programme will boost economic growth and competitiveness in the sector. 

The collaboration will support faster access to cutting edge treatments, strengthen clinical trials, and improve UK medicine manufacturing, which will ultimately lead to better patient outcomes. The BTR explain that they will monitor the progress of the scheme carefully, because historically brain tumour research has been underfunded and neglected.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “This private investment is a significant vote of confidence in the UK and will fast-track the next generation of treatments to NHS patients. It will enhance the UK’s global competitiveness and transform the country into the epicentre of health research, supporting an NHS fit for the future.”

“By cutting waiting lists and fixing our NHS, we can make it an engine for growth and build the healthy society needed for a healthy economy.”

What are the issues with brain tumour research funding?

Since 1971, BTR explains that there has been an overall increase in survival of less than ten per cent for people with high grade brain tumours, which is less than the progress in survival rates for most other types of cancer. They point out that of £590m spent by the government on cancer research, only 1.9 per cent was spent in brain tumours.

However, the problem cannot simply be resolved by allocating more funding. Indeed, £40m was allocated to the sector in 2017, yet five years later, only £15m of this funding was spent. BTR have called for the government to work more closely with brain tumour researchers and charities to identify the best ways of allocating new funding.

The BTR also calls for researchers from other fields to take part in brain tumour research in order to deepen and broaden the field. For example, they suggest that early career researchers in fields such as oncology, neurology and neuroscience could direct their expertise towards cancer. They also call for more doctors to specialise in neurology. 

How might the new investment scheme help?

A major barrier to more effective progress in brain tumour treatments is a lack of access to clinical trials. The new scheme will prioritise clinical trials and streamline the process, potentially leading to more frequent high-quality trials in the field. 

The government press release confirms that 18 new clinical trial hubs will be set up across the UK to boost access and accelerate the research process. 

Richard Torbett, ABPI Chief Executive, said: “The life science industry has the potential to deliver so much more for the UK – but to do this we need to fix the NHS, improve patient access to medicines and invest more in our critical science and regulatory infrastructure.”

“This world-first investment programme puts industry money behind the government’s vision to make better health and science a driver of economic growth.”

Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “We are determined that the most effective new treatments are made available to NHS patients by ensuring the UK is the best place to discover and deploy new medicines, from early research through clinical trials to manufacture.”

“Investing in cutting-edge medicines research both boosts our economic growth potential and the prospect of new treatments and technologies for modern patient care. Support for clinical trials is integral to both.”

Professor Lucy Chappell, DHSC Chief Scientific Adviser and CEO of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), said: “I am delighted that the Chief Scientific Advisers for Health across the UK are working closely together to bring potential new treatments from companies in the life sciences sector to patients.”

It is hoped that the VPAG will reinvigorate the field of brain tumour research, and also more broadly improve the development of cutting edge new medicines in the UK. This will help to transform the NHS into a health service fit for the challenges of the 21st century. It will also enable NHS patients to have faster access to potentially life-saving clinical trials. 

If you would like some more information about brain tumour treatment, please contact Mr Andrew McAvoy of Amethyst Radiotherapy.

The music producer best known as half of the dance music act Bicep has revealed that he is undergoing treatment for a large and rare pituitary gland tumour. BBC News reports that Matt McBriar, who is from Belfast but based in London, posted information about his condition on his Instagram account. 

Mr McBriar, 38, explained that he had been diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma tumour on his pituitary gland, after experiencing fatigue and headaches. 

He posted: “Towards the end of 2023, I got some intense localised headaches matched with a weird fatigue that felt new. I got several blood tests in spring 2024 which came back indicating that something was wrong, so my GP arranged an MRI followed by a CT scan.”

The results of the scan showed a craniopharyngioma tumour, a large and quite rare type of tumour growing on his pituitary gland. 

Mr McBriar said: “The good news is firstly, it’s almost certainly not cancerous and secondly, I’ve caught it in the earlier stages of damage. I’d been very lucky to get those initial blood tests followed by an MRI. Had it been much longer I might’ve lost some eyesight and a load of other problems due to the size and position of the tumour pressing on my optic nerves.”

Following successful surgery to remove the tumour on 9 August, Mr McBriar is recovering for six to eight weeks. In the meantime, his Bicep partner Andy Ferguson will continue to perform their breakbeat techno music solo at various venues, including the Creamfields Festival on 22-25 August. 

The Belfast duo have had various hits and reached number two in the album charts with their record Isles in 2021. In the same year, they were nominated for two Brit Awards for best British group and breakthrough artist. They are a hugely successful and popular festival act, with an atmospheric sound and captivating visuals. 

What are pituitary gland tumours?

Pituitary gland tumours (sometimes called pituitary adenomas) are usually benign (non cancerous) tumours that grow in the pituitary gland. This is a small gland located at the base of the brain behind the nose, and it produces the hormones that control the levels of other hormones in the body. About one in every 17 tumours diagnosed is a pituitary gland tumour. 

Different types of pituitary tumours

Functioning

Pituitary tumours that make hormones are known as functioning (or secreting) tumours, and they are divided into subcategories depending on what type of hormone is being produced.  These types of tumours can cause notable side effects because of the unbalance of hormones in the body.

Somatotroph adenomas make growth hormones, and they can cause abnormal growth spurts in young people, and in young adults they may cause overgrown hands, feet, and lower jaw. 

Tumours that make adrenocorticotropic hormones (ACTH) stimulate the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This can cause a range of symptoms including weight gain, a red rounded face, and high blood pressure. There are several other types of functioning pituitary gland tumours.

Non-functioning tumours

Non-functioning pituitary gland tumours (sometimes called non secreting) are tumours that don’t produce hormones. However, as in Mr McBriar’s case, they can press on the optic nerve, potentially causing vision disturbance or even sight loss. They can also cause fatigue and headaches. 

How are pituitary gland tumours treated?

The treatment will depend on the type of tumour, the symptoms it is causing, and the overall health and wishes of the patient. Slow growing tumours that are not causing symptoms may be monitored with regular MRI scans, and further action taken if the tumour shows signs of growth. 

Surgery to remove the tumour, usually via a tube inserted through the nose, may be necessary to remove active tumours. Radiotherapy or stereotactic radiotherapy may also be used in addition or as an alternative to traditional surgery. This involves killing the tumour cells with highly targeted radiation beams from an external machine.

Functioning pituitary tumours may additionally be treated with drugs to reduce the hormone levels in the body. This is in order to treat the symptoms, rather than shrink the tumour. 

If you are looking for further information on pituitary tumours and pituitary tumour treatment, please contact Ms Anouk Borg of Amethyst Radiotherapy.

One of the most common treatments for cancers, brain lesions and growths is radiotherapy, as it is often the most minimally invasive, minimally harmful and minimally inconvenient option for early-stage conditions.

Whilst conventional surgery can be invasive and typically requires rest and observation days, and chemotherapy uses drugs that can have quite strong side effects for certain people, someone can step into a radiotherapy centre, have a treatment that lasts a matter of hours and potentially walk out the same day.

Beyond the convenience aspect, radiotherapy needs to have some degree of precision in order to provide the greatest effect with the least amount of harm, and in that respect, radiotherapy treatments aimed at the brain are more precise than treatments designed for other parts of the body.

There are a few reasons for this, which centre around medical knowledge of the brain, the baseline requirements for treating brain conditions and the philosophy of medical treatment.

As the pioneer of the Gamma Knife radiosurgery treatment, Lars Leksell put it, there is no degree of refinement that is too precise for the human brain.

The Brain Moves More Predictably

One of the most interesting research fields as of late when it comes to radiotherapy is the potential for real-time diagnostics.

The reason why this matters is that many organs and parts of the body have a fairly wide range of motion, and where they are placed often depends on how someone is positioned or sitting.

This makes it quite difficult to plan treatments and often requires affected areas to be heavily secured to ensure that there is as little variation as possible between the position of the body when the scans were made and when the treatment is undertaken.

With the brain, there is far less variation in movement. The brain does move like any other organ, but these tiny motions are barely perceptible and fundamentally do not affect treatment.

As well as this, the brain is contained within the skull and the layer of cerebrospinal fluid that is vital to protect the brain in a wide variety of ways, both physically and in the regulation of substances within the brain.

This has the side effect of meaning that the brain largely stays where it is, and by extension, any growths or tumours that have not grown or metastasised will also remain in the same place they were found after a CT or MRI scan.

This allows for more precise treatment plans to be followed, with the minimum amount of radiation exposure necessary to destroy the growth or cancerous mass.

As well as this, the frames that are used to ensure that treatments are precise and unhampered by involuntary movement are more effective as they only need to stop external movement.

The Brain Has Been Accurately Mapped

The concept of stereotactic surgery predates its use in the Gamma Knife for many years and was initially used as a way to create an atlas of the human brain in an era when radiotherapy was not a fully established treatment and CT scans did not exist.

Victor Horsley and Robert Clarke created the Horsley-Clarke apparatus, which allowed them to create an accurate and detailed map of animal brains and similar systems were later applied to the treatment of humans as well.

Because there is less movement in the brain, the organ and its component parts can be mapped using a quadrant or coordinate system. Horsley-Clarke used a cartesian coordinates system, Lars Leksell used polar coordinates, and other systems such as Talirach and MNI are specifically used for brain treatments.

This means that the planning stages for a Gamma Knife treatment are particularly precise, which allows for accurate and effective results.

No Tool Too Refined

Lars Leksell has described his motivations for creating the Gamma Knife several times before his death in 1986, wanting to create a form of surgery that was less brutal and bloody than the treatments that he had learned at the Karolinska Institute.

He also noted that there is no such concept as too much precision when it comes to brain surgery, because of the complex interplay between the various different parts, and how any slight deviation from a treatment plan can have unexpected consequences.

The ideal for Mr Leksell was a form of surgery that required no incision at all, given that most stereotactic surgeries at the time involved the use of electrodes inserted to cauterise certain growths.

With the aid of an array of tiny beams of radiation focused on a fixed point, Mr Leksell no longer needed to make incisions for most common brain treatments.

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and multiple sclerosis (MS) are distinct neurological disorders. However, according to the MS Society, it is estimated that people with MS are 20 times more likely to experience TN than those without MS. Here’s a look at the causes, symptoms and treatments for trigeminal neuralgia occurring with MS.

What is Trigeminal neuralgia?

TN is caused by damage to the trigeminal nerve, which can trigger shooting pain in the face. The acute attacks of pain are described as sudden and severe, usually occurring in short stabbing bursts lasting up to two minutes, but sometimes just a few seconds. The pain is commonly felt on one side of the face, usually in the jaw, teeth or gums.

The pain can relapse and recur, with weeks or months in between attacks. However, over time the condition may get progressively worse and the pain becomes more frequent. Sometimes, TN can progress from acute to chronic pain, which is more likely to be an aching or burning sensation that is constantly present.

TN is thought to be a relatively rare condition that affects more women than men, and usually starts between the ages of 50 and 60. The attacks sometimes have an identifiable trigger, such as brushing the teeth, eating, washing, or moving the head. In some cases, there appears to be no reason for the onset of pain. 

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a lifelong autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system around the brain and spinal cord. The immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath that covers the nerve fibres, resulting in difficulties of communication between the brain and spinal cord.

This can cause a wide range of problems that may get worse over time, or recur and relapse. Most MS patients eventually live with some degree of disability. 

Diagnosing TN

Anyone who is experiencing acute or chronic pain in their face should see a GP, who will carry out a review of the medical history, and may request some tests to try to identify the cause. In some cases there may be an alternative explanation, such as dental problems. The doctor may request an MRI scan to identify any abnormalities in the trigeminal nerve. 

What challenges do MS patients with trigeminal neuralgia face?

TN in itself can be a debilitating condition to live with, causing difficulty eating and sleeping, often resulting in weight loss. Patients may become depressed as a result of the severe pain, or become more socially isolated due to being physically unable to partake in usual activities such as exercise or going out for meals. 

MS patients face more severe challenges, because they may already be dealing with a wide range of other symptoms that are complex to manage. Therefore TN can seriously impact their quality of life and increase their current level of disability. 

The mental health of MS patients living with TN may suffer, particularly if it develops into chronic pain. Depression and anxiety are understandably common among MS patients, and it can be debilitating in itself. Combined with pain and all the other potential difficulties caused by MS, patients who also experience TN can be even more vulnerable. 

How can trigeminal neuralgia be treated?

The first line of treatment for TN is usually painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, these may not be effective for severe pain. In this case, doctors may prescribe anticonvulsants. If this is not successful or causes too many side effects, then the doctor may recommend a type of surgery.

In some cases, Gamma Knife radiosurgery has been found to be effective for treating TN. This is not traditional surgery involving an incision into the skull, so it carries much less risk for infections, bleeding and the other complications associated with open surgery. 

The radiosurgery involves applying a very high dose of gamma radiation that is precisely targeted at points along the trigeminal nerve. This causes deliberate damage to the nerve, resulting in a loss of feeling and relief from pain. 

If you are looking for further information on face pain and trigeminal neuralgia, please contact Mr Jonathan Hyam of Amethyst Radiotherapy..

As we enter Glioblastoma Awareness Week (GMB Week) from 15-21 July this year, The Brain Tumour Charity has announced an important step forward for the field of brain tumour research as they team up with the Beatson Cancer Charity. They will establish a new research centre in Scotland in an attempt to find a cure.

During the collaboration, leading experts in the field of brain tumour research will work together and in partnership with Glasgow University and Edinburgh University. It will be the base for the biggest group of GMB researchers in the UK. 

What is GMB Week all about?

GMB is dedicated to raising awareness of GBM, which is the most commonly diagnosed high-grade (cancerous) brain tumour in adults. It is a devastating disease with a prognosis of just 12- 18 months. Approximately 3,200 adults are diagnosed with a GMB each year in the UK.

What are the treatment options for GMB?

Currently treatment options mainly include surgery, chemotherapy and radiosurgery. However, the method of treatment will vary depending on the size and location of the tumour, and the general health and preferences of the patient. 

The  first line of treatment is usually neurosurgery to remove the bulk of the tumour. However, because GMBs often have diffuse edges, it can be difficult to remove the tumour completely. This means that some of the tumour may remain and have the potential to grow. In this case, the GMB may be treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation.

An advanced method of radiation treatment that may be suitable for small remaining parts of the tumour is Gamma Knife Surgery. This is a type of stereotactic radiotherapy that is designed to deliver closely targeted beams of gamma rays that leave the surrounding healthy tissue intact. 

The higher dosage of radiation means that often the treatment is delivered in one session, which can last from about 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the size and nature of the area being treated. 

Funding is still required for the new research centre

The Brain Tumour Research chief executive, Dan Knowles, explained that they were still working to secure funding for the new research centre in Scotland. If successful, the team aims to run clinical trials for potential new GBM treatments. 

Knowles said: “New, improved treatments for GBM patients are desperately needed. At present, new discoveries and approaches are not progressing quickly enough into clinical testing in patients.”

“The Scottish Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence will help bridge this gap leading to pivotal preclinical proof-of-concept data to support clinical trial development for patients.

“The centre represents a significant investment in Scotland and would complement our other centres of excellence at the University of Plymouth, Imperial College London, Queen Mary University of London and the Institute of Cancer Research.”

Martin Cawley, Beatson chief executive, said: “This is such an exciting initiative and one which has the positive potential to make a significant impact into advancing research and ultimately new treatment options for brain tumours.

“Beatson Cancer Charity is delighted to be working in partnership with Brain Tumour Research to make this happen. I have no doubt this will result in a deeper understanding of the complexity of brain tumours and lead to a breakthrough in exciting new treatments in the years ahead.”

The only way to provide more advanced treatments and even a possible cure for aggressive brain tumours is through more research into the causes and drivers of the disease. This is only possible through adequate and well-administered funding levels that are available for research projects as well as drug development. 

Over the past few decades, developments have been extremely limited and progress has been frustratingly slow. However, charities such as the Brain Tumour Research Centres of Excellence continue to do vital research, and they work in partnership with a range of other organisations, from world leading university departments to other research charities. 

Despite the slow progress in new treatments, there are many excellent centres for the treatment of brain tumours in the UK, offering the most cutting edge techniques available, as well as robust post-treatment care plans.  

If you would like some more information about Gamma Knife surgery and brain cancer, please contact Mr Neil Kitchen of Amethyst Radiotherapy.

The tenor and musical theatre star Alfie Boe has launched a rose in memory of his late father, who died from a brain tumour in 1997 when Alfie was 23 years old. The Alfred Boe Rose was launched at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show on 6 July, and the proceeds will raise funds for the charity Brain Tumour Research. 

The Evening Standard reports that Mr Boe also expressed his frustration at the lack of progress in understanding and treating brain tumours, even 25 years after the death of his father.  

Brain tumours are the biggest killer of people under the age of 40 compared to any other type of cancer, but just one per cent of all cancer research funding has been spent on brain tumours since records began in 2002. 

Writing on Instagram, Mr Boe said: “A fun yet emotional morning down at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2024 launching the Alfred Robert Boe Rose with the fantastic @harknessroses1879 in memory of my late father. We are proud to donate £2.50 from the sale of each ‘Alfred Robert Boe’ rose to @braintumourrsch charity which I am a Patron for.”

In a further press statement he added: “My dad loved his roses, so it’s really special for me to do this in his memory while helping to raise money for Brain Tumour Research, a charity I am very proud to be a patron of and which is working to find a cure for this devastating disease.”

“It makes me angry that, in all this time, the situation for patients like Dad hasn’t really changed. I feel incredibly sad to think that families are still facing this awful diagnosis and, nearly 30 years later, there have been so few advances in treatment.”

“There is no doubt in my mind that research into brain tumours should be a priority and I am ashamed to think that charities are having to do so much in this area. The Government should be doing so much more.”

Dan Knowles, the chief executive of Brain Tumour Research, said he hopes the flower will raise funds and awareness to progress their “research into brain tumours and improve outcomes for patients like Alfred who are forced to fight this awful disease”.

Mr Boe, from Blackpool, has long been committed to raising awareness of brain tumours, and his latest Encore tour has raised over £16,000 for further research. He has spoken openly to his audiences about his distressing experience of losing his father to a brain tumour and participated in fundraising Shine A Light and Wear A Hat Day events.

At his show in Cardiff in June, Alfie met fan and volunteer Debra, who lost her only child Jenna to a brain tumour in January. Jenna was 15 years old and had been diagnosed with a diffuse hemispheric glioma 15 months previously.

Debra said: “Hearing Alfie speak during his show about his father was so moving and it’s clear he is so passionate about raising awareness for Brain Tumour Research. His fans were lovely, they were queuing up to donate and several of them shared their own experiences of how brain tumours had affected them.”

“Meeting Alfie was the icing on the cake. He stopped to chat and he ended up asking to have a photo taken with us, rather than the other way around!”

Despite continual research, scientists do not fully understand what causes brain tumours, and this limits the type of treatments that are available. There are over 120 different types of brain tumour, and around 16,000 people will be diagnosed with one each year in the UK. 

Brain tumours are divided into four classifications: grades one, two, three and four. Grades one and two are slow-growing non cancerous tumours, and grades three and four are cancerous tumours that can spread quickly and can result in a short prognosis. 

Low grade tumours may be actively monitored rather than treated, but high grade tumours require urgent attention. The most common types of treatment for brain tumours include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes a combination of two or more treatments will be used, depending on the size, location and type of tumour.

Smaller tumours may be treated with stereotactic radiotherapy, sometimes also called Gamma Knife surgery. This involves delivering very high doses of gamma rays to a precisely targeted area, to destroy the tumour cells and leave the surrounding healthy tissue untouched. 

For more information about Gamma Knife surgery, please contact Mr Neil Kitchen of Amethyst Radiotherapy.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition that causes disruption to functioning of the central nervous system. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms that impact the quality of life of the patient. There is no cure for MS, but there are treatments that can potentially slow its progress or lessen the frequency or severity of relapses.

Many people find that by actively managing their symptoms and general health, they can improve their quality of life and make the condition easier to live with. Here’s a look at some daily living strategies that people with mild to moderate MS may find beneficial.

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of MS, and it can be seriously debilitating. It’s more than feeling tired most of the time; it’s feeling exhausted to a degree that is out of proportion to the activity undertaken. The fatigue can also be mental, causing brain fog and worse short term memory and concentration levels. 

Fatigue can be a difficult problem to manage, and it is not always easy to explain to other people the impact it has because there are no visible symptoms. It can come on suddenly and doesn’t necessarily go away with rest. 

Researchers are not completely sure why so many people with MS are affected by fatigue, but it is thought that it can be the result of the condition itself, or the consequences of living with the condition. The former type is simply thought to be because it takes up more energy for the damaged central nervous system to do its job.

The latter, known as secondary fatigue, is thought to be a result of symptoms such as pain, depression, weaker bladder control, disturbed sleep, or the side effects of medication. While it is not possible to prevent the feeling of fatigue occuring, it is possible to manage energy levels through lifestyle and strategic planning.

Boosting energy levels can be achieved through a combination of eating healthily, sticking to a good sleep routine, taking exercise, and managing stress levels. Planning and prioritising can help to ensure that the energy available is used in the most effective way.  

Eating small, frequent meals that contain a good balance of proteins, fibre and unsaturated fats can help to maintain a steady supply of energy and avoid sudden crashes. This not only improves energy levels, but also helps to maintain a healthy weight, keeps the skin and bones in good condition, and reduces the risk of developing other health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease and some types of cancer. 

Sleep is obviously crucial to our ability to mentally and physically refresh our bodies and minds. To give yourself the best chance of a good night’s rest, go to bed and get up at the same time every day; limit intake of caffeine, alcohol and other stimulants; and develop a wind down routine that starts an hour or so before bed to help your mind prepare for rest. 

It is natural to reduce activity levels when you are feeling fatigued, but this can make the problem worse, because the more unfit you become, the more difficult and energy-intensive every day tasks of living will become. Staying active does not necessarily mean going to the gym; it can include household chores, carrying groceries, or going for a brisk walk. 

As well as boosting your energy levels, it’s important to make sure that you are making the best use of the energy that you have available. Keep a journal to record which activities you find most tiring, and plan to spread them out throughout the week rather than attempting too much in a short period of time. 

If you are currently struggling to carry out all of the activities you have planned, prioritise them in order of importance. However, remember that you should prioritise enjoyable activities as well as chores, otherwise your mental health may begin to suffer and this can in turn be a further drain on your energy and motivation levels. 

Make sure that you take regular breaks in between activities and break bigger jobs up into smaller more manageable steps if need be. If you have the opportunity to delegate tasks to family members or friends, this can help you to conserve energy levels. 

Be mindful of other people’s time pressures and responsibilities, and consider exploring the possibility of hiring paid assistants for jobs such as gardening, cleaning or laundry. 

If you would like some more information about multiple sclerosis and Gamma Knife surgery, please contact Mr Jonathan Hyam of Amethyst Radiotherapy.

The professional swimmer Archie Goodburn has revealed that he has been diagnosed with a rare form of inoperable brain tumour. BBC News reports that the 23 year old began to experience unusual symptoms during trials for the 2024 Olympic Games, and received the devastating tumour diagnosis six weeks ago.

Goodburn explained that he has been diagnosed with three oligodendrogliomas. Cancer Research UK explains that these are rare and slow growing brain tumours that develop from the glial cells called oligodendrocytes. The most common symptoms include seizures and headaches. 

Oligodendrogliomas mostly develop in the frontal lobes of the brain, but more rarely originate in the spinal cord, and very occasionally they can spread to other parts of the brain and spinal cord. The treatment for oligodendrogliomas depends on whether they are slow growing or fast growing. 

The main treatment options include active monitoring of slow growing tumours, surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible; radiotherapy, which involves using precisely directed gamma rays to destroy the tumour cells; and chemotherapy. 

Surgery may not always be possible if there is no clear border between the tumour and the healthy brain tissue. In Goodburn’s case, he has explained that the nature of his tumours means that traditional surgery is not an option, and he will undergo a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. 

He wrote on his Instagram: “Six weeks ago, my life experienced a profound change as I was diagnosed with three brain tumours. In December 2023, my training began to be interrupted by strange episodes. These episodes, initially thought to be hemiplegic migraines, would occur during hard training.”

“They would leave me with a loss of strength and a numb sensation on my left side, a deep feeling of fear, nausea and extreme deja vu. I now know that these were in fact seizures. With the trials behind me, I dug deeper into what was really causing these attacks. An MRI in May finally revealed what I’d begun to fear the most.”

“The silver lining to this diagnosis is that oligodendrogliomas generally respond better to radiotherapy and chemotherapy than many other serious brain tumour types. I am young, I am fit, I have the most phenomenal support network of friends, the best family I could ever hope for and a fantastic girlfriend by my side.”

He added: “I am determined to take this head-on, to remain positive and to keep being Archie.”

Despite suffering from headaches, nausea and a numb sensation down his left side, Goodburn only just missed out on qualifying for this year’s Olympic Games in Paris. He has previously won a bronze medal in the World Junior Swimming Championships and was part of the Scottish Commonwealth Games swimming team in 2022.

Radiotherapy is sometimes used as a second line of treatment after surgery to remove any remaining parts of the tumour. This process may involve Gamma Knife surgery, which is a form of stereotactic radiotherapy. This does not involve any surgical incisions, but is the delivery of multiple gamma rays that focus on the exact location of the tumour.

The high dose of radiation kills the tumour cells while avoiding the surrounding healthy tissue, minimising the risk of complications and side effects. The procedure takes between 15 minutes and several hours to perform, depending on the size  and location of the tumour. 

Stereotactic surgery is often used for more complex tumours or for patients who are not suitable candidates for conventional surgery. It is minimally invasive and usually the patient can go home from the hospital or clinic within the same day. After the procedure, the patient will be monitored with follow up scans and appointments. 

The cause of oligodendrogliomas is not fully understood, although research into brain tumours is continually ongoing to shed more light on why they develop, and how they can best be treated. The current understanding is that brain tumours are rarely preventable, but may be linked to a range of genetic and environmental causes.

There is some evidence that the risk of developing a small number of specific types of brain tumour may be increased by being overweight or obese. They are slightly more common in women than in men, and in both genders they are more common in people over the age of 75.

Here at Amethyst Radiotherapy, we’ve been working closely with Radiotherapy UK to develop a new video series, which aims to help prepare brain tumour patients for Gamma Knife treatment, a type of radiotherapy.

This can be a daunting prospect at what is already a difficult time and the videos will take you through each step of the process to help demystify it and ease your natural apprehension.

The video shows a step-by-step guide to the Gamma Knife treatment and is supported by four additional videos from the medical team including the therapeutic radiographer, neurosurgeon, clinical oncologist and medical director.

Your diagnosis

A brain tumour diagnosis can cause major upheaval in the life of a patient and their loved ones. There is a lot of new information to take in, at a time when emotions can be running high and there are also practical issues to deal with, such as arranging time off work for treatment and dealing with paperwork and finances.

This can make the prospect of discussing and starting your treatment feel overwhelming. Every patient will have a dedicated medical team who will be able to guide them through their treatment options, based on the type and size of brain tumour they have and its location in the brain, and also their general state of health and personal wishes.

Patients with a certain type of brain tumour may be a suitable candidate for Gamma Knife radiotherapy. This is a highly focused form of radiotherapy that delivers tightly targeted high doses of radiation to the brain tumour. The radiation beams cause deliberate damage to the DNA of the tumour tissue, while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue largely untouched.

Brain tumours can affect people of all ages, and research is ongoing to understand more about what causes them. There are many different types of brain tumours, and they can cause different symptoms depending on the size and location in the brain. They are broadly categorised into two main groups: malignant and benign.

Malignant brain tumours are cancerous and fast growing, and benign brain tumours are usually slow growing and non-cancerous. However, the term benign can be misleading, because even non-cancerous tumours can cause serious symptoms and the tumour may need to be carefully monitored or removed if possible.

Some specific types of brain tumour are best suited to Gamma Knife radiotherapy, including metastases, acoustic neuroma, and meningioma, because they are well contained within one area of the brain. Other types of tumour such as gliomas may be less suitable for the treatment, because they tend to spread further through the brain.

Advice and guidance

Your medical team will provide you with expert advice and guidance on the treatment options open to you, based on the results of your biopsy and MRI scans. This will be a two-way process, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and be given time to think over your decision.

In some cases, a combination of traditional surgery, chemotherapy, and Gamma Knife radiotherapy may be the agreed way forward. Gamma Knife does not involve any incisions despite its name; it is delivered externally from a special machine designed to accurately focus high doses of radiation at a precisely targeted area.

This eliminates the immediate risks of traditional surgery such as infections and bleeding, and recovery times are much quicker. Typically the treatment is delivered in one dose and can take between ten minutes and several hours, depending on the nature and extent of the tumour. Occasionally, a second or third dose may be required.

Gamma Knife treatment is generally tolerated well with few side effects, and usually results in the tumour being well-controlled. Sometimes, patients may experience a delayed reaction, which might include headaches or occasionally seizures. Your medical team will fully explain all the risks and potential side-effects before your treatment starts.

If you make the decision to go ahead with Gamma Knife treatment, it can be helpful to know what to expect on the day. In most cases, the treatment will be delivered as a day case and you will not need to stay overnight in the hospital. Your medical team will discuss in advance if you do need to stay overnight.

What to expect

Before the treatment begins, you will have an MRI scan that will be examined by the radiologist and consultant. This process can take up to an hour or two, so bring some entertainment with you. The medics will use the information from the scan to locate the exact position of the tumour in your brain.

On the day of the treatment, it’s important that you wear comfortable clothing with no metal attachments or jewellery. If you wear a headscarf, you will have to remove it while the frame is fitted, but it can then be placed back on.  You will be fitted with a lightweight frame (or in some cases a mask) to make sure that your head is kept still during the treatment process.

You can eat and drink as normal beforehand, and you will be invited to use the bathroom directly before the process starts to ensure your comfort. However, you can also have toilet or water breaks during the treatment.

During the treatment, you will lie on a couch and your head and chest will be positioned in a large horizontal bucket-shaped device. You will not feel anything, and can leave your eyes open and listen to music or podcasts if you wish. There will be no one in the room with you, but you will be able to communicate with your medical team via an intercom system.

You will be automatically repositioned during the procedure so that the gamma rays can target slightly different areas of the tumour each time. Each exposure will take several minutes, and the whole procedure may take several hours.

When the treatment is over, you will be taken to a preparation room where the frame will be removed from your head. You may feel slightly sore and sensitive in this area for a few days after the procedure. Your medical team will discuss all the potential side effects with you, such as nausea, headache, or dizziness.

The treatment is non-invasive and you will not be radioactive afterwards, so you can resume normal procedures as soon as you feel able to do so. After the procedure, you will have follow up appointments and may have further scans if necessary to monitor your progress.

If you have any issues or concerns after your treatment, contact a member of your medical team and they will be able to discuss these with you.